Kate Middleton Wears a Burgundy Dress for Surprise Engagement (and It’s Giving Nicole Kidman Vibes)

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It was a meaningful (and emotional) return to royal work for the Princess of Wales this week as she joined Prince William unexpectedly for a visit to Southport, England, to meet with first responders impacted by the tragic attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance class over the summer. For the engagement, Kate reached deep into her closet to embrace an understated—and autumnal—vibe repeating a custom chocolate-brown Alexander McQueen coat (last worn in Boston in December 2022 ) and a past-season burgundy-hued polka dot dress from Whistles ( worn to a reception at Kensington Palace in 2018 ). Still, it’s how she updated the dress that caught our eye—and reminds us a ton of Nicole Kidman’s recent Perfect Couple attire .

WPA Pool/Getty Images

Before we talk Netflix overlap, there are quite a few things to love about Kate’s latest look, from the return of a style motif that’s become her signature ( polka dots, FTW ) to the sustainability factor of donning a royal repeat in a hue (burgundy!) that’s totally on-trend . But it’s the blink-and-you-miss-it update that Kate gave to her Whistles dress that we love the most: It appears from the photos that she re-purposed the belt that came with the dress to create a tie-neck collar. For anyone obsessed with A Perfect Couple , a voluminous bow at the neckline happens to be Kidman’s character Greer’s signature look on the hit show.

Danny Lawson/Getty Images

The power of revisiting your closet with the help of a good—if not royally-approved—tailor? Kate is proof of the wonders it can work. Of course, her brown coat only elevates the entire ensemble, but for our own fall style, we can’t stop thinking about the elegance of such a rich autumn hue or the simple flourish that is a tie-neck bow.

How can you mirror Kate’s look—in blouse or dress form? We pulled a handful of options that feel on par with what the Princess of Wales wore.

1. Cefinn Daria Silk Midi Dress

Cefinn

A near-exact replica of Kate’s dress, from the tie-neck bow down to the color and fit.

2. L.K. Bennett Polka Dot Silk Dress

L.K. Bennett

OK, so this dress comes in a different color than Kate’s, but it still mirrors the polka dot pattern and that elegant tie neck.

3. Quince Washable Silk Tie-Neck Blouse

Quince

In blouse form, this tie-neck style sings in a wine-colored hue.

4. Favorite Daughter Nita Dress

Favorite Daughter

Burgundy? Check. Polka dots? Check. The only thing missing is the tie-neck collar, but much like Kate, you can always dial your closest tailor to see what magic they can work.

Sartorial inspo aside, we’re thrilled to see Kate feeling well enough to join Prince William—and both royals giving their support and attention to such an important cause.

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